Question

Nepenthes bicalcarata   This Nepenthes bicalcarata has been in a large indoor terrarium for about 9 months. It has been fine until 2 weeks ago when its leaves started to turn black. Even the brand new leaves are starting to darken. It's been under fluorescent lights (T5 blue/red spectrum) and watered with only distilled water. It's planted in sphagnum moss, peat moss, perlite, and charcoal in proportions recommended by "The Savage Garden".

I live in Vancouver, WA. Do you know why the plant has developed what looks like a fungal infection on it's leaves and what should I do about it? Thanks!

Answer
Hi Reggie,

It looks like your soil is too wet, combined with possibly too much peat moss in the mix.  Nepenthes mix needs to drain freely, and the plants shouldn't sit in water for any length of time.  A little water in the bottom of a tray isn't a big deal, but if they remain very wet the way you might do for a Sarracenia, it is a disaster for Nepenthes.

Repotting the plant would be a good idea, and use a bit less peat in the mix.  I would cut the quantity in half.

What temperatures has the plant been at?  N. bicalcurata should not be below 70 degrees otherwise that could be the source of some of your problems too.  They are a true lowlander wanting it hot and humid.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com